Thursday, May 7, 2015

Senior finds his passion in biomedical research

Hampton University Class of 2015 #GradHU15

The Hampton University Class of 2015 is ready to soar. The graduates
will don their caps and gowns on May 10, 2015 and join the ranks of
thousands of Hampton University alumni making an impact all over the
world. This blog series will feature a different member of Class of 2015
during Commencement week.

Senior finds his passion in biomedical research

Joshua Burton is one of the 2015 recipients of the President's Cup.

“Know that with
every breath and step, the journey is as important as the destination…keep
trotting.” These are the words Joshua Burton lives by. Burton’s journey has led
him to be one of the three seniors presented with the 2015 Hampton University
President’s Cup.

The senior biology
major and native of Antigua and Barbuda says that when it came to choosing a
new home for four years, there was no doubt that Hampton University was a top
contender. The climate in Virginia appeared to be one that he could adjust to
without too much discomfort in comparison to the states further north.

“Hampton
University turned out to be the most favorable option, and the fact that I
secured a scholarship at this prestigious HBCU affirmed it as my school of
choice,” said Burton.

Starting as a
freshman in James Hall, Burton came to HU with intent on going to medical
school after graduation, but instead he found that his real passion is in
biomedical research.

“I was able to
connect with professors who encouraged me to consider this path and opened up
the opportunities to allow me to get the exposure that I needed. My time at
Hampton has indeed allowed me to redefine my career objectives.”

Burton
was also recently awarded the second place prize in biology department for his
oral presentation: “Cell Adhesion Molecules and Oocyte Development.”

After
graduation, Burton will attended Syracuse University where he will pursue a
doctoral degree in biology. “I anticipate that this course of study will
equip me with the requisite skills and knowledge for a career in biomedical
research.”

Ultimately, Burton would like to
establish a biomedical research facility in Antigua and Barbuda to further
invigorate the health care system.

Burton has truly
taken advantage of all Hampton University has to offer and has been a part of
numerous organizations on campus including Beta Kappa Chi Scientific Honor
Society, Freddye T. Davy Honors College, Student Support Services academic
tutor, Frederick D. Inge Biology Club and the Hampton University Pre-Health
Program.

Sabin Duncan,
director of the Freddye T. Davy Honors College, describes Burton as a “jewel of
a student.”

“I
am grateful because I know that in time, when I name the most remarkable alumni
that list will include Joshua,” Duncan said. “I will feel a great sense of
pride knowing that my contributions were among the many that shaped this
marvelous young man."